Collector’s Pavilion

Chenequa, Wisconsin

Architect: Vetter Denk ArchitectsContractor: True Inc.

Inserted into a densely wooded landscape in Waukesha County, this striking building houses a private fitness space and vintage automobile gallery. The “collector’s pavilion” slides into the topography, with a folded roof plane that hovers over a board-formed concrete base. Attuned to privacy and security, the building possesses dual personalities, featuring a secure private bunker from the exterior while transforming into a warm inviting space in the interior. The use of indirect light as well as obscuring direct views from the public right-of-way provides adequate day light while ensuring strict privacy. The project’s shifting personality contrasts and merges with the environment depending on the season. The building employs meticulous detailing that harmonizes with its natural surroundings through its materiality, formal language and siting.

Jury Comment:"This is an incredibly striking project. It’s a beautiful building that sits in its landscape in a compelling way. The concrete, wood and steel are the three materials that are consistently used throughout in a very thoughtful design. The use of concrete is particularly admirable. The way the polished floors, poured-in-place walls and how the module continues from the inside to the outside is well done and creates a very strong relationship. To come across this structure in the landscape would be a powerful moment."